January 2014 Issue
Feature Articles
Adding a New Dimension: Lidar and Archaeology
During the past decade, lidar “point clouds” have revealed vast ruins of ancient cities in dense tropical jungles. Some say the laser ranging technique could revolutionize archaeologists’ understanding of human civilizations.
by Patricia DaukantasThin-Film Interference in Lossy, Ultra-Thin Layers
Although much thinner than conventional optical interference coatings, nanometer-thick films made of optically absorbing materials can display strong interference effects. This new class of coatings shows promise for coloring and labeling, optical filters, tunable absorbers and emitters, and energy harvesting.
by Mikhail A. Kats, Romain Blanchard, Shriram Ramanathan and Federico CapassoProbing the Eye More Deeply: Adaptive Optics Multiphoton Microscopy
The integration of adaptive optics techniques into ophthalmic imaging devices has improved the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. The coupling of adaptive optics with multiphoton microscopy may help extend the reach of ophthalmic imaging to greater depths within the cornea and retina.
by Juan M. BuenoDepartments and Columns
Scatterings
Headliners, policy news and industry updates.
Tower Optical Corporation: Riding the Waveplates
Mel Kantor is not a scientist, but he knows a good tech business when he sees one. Here, he talks about his experience as leader of a Florida-based waveplate manufacturer.
A Fellow’s Journey to Mongolia
Akhlesh Lakhtakia details his journey to the hub of the most sparsely populated country in the world.
Career Culture Shock
Thoughts on navigating a new work environment.
Introducing OSA’s New Treasurer
On 1 January 2014, George Bayz begins his term as OSA Treasurer.
Essential U.S. Government Functions
Joseph N. Mait examines the role of federal workers during the 2013 U.S. government shutdown.
Ulbricht’s Kugelphotometer
The challenge of measuring light intensity.
